Seafood lovers rejoice — the cost of prawns has dived dramatically since the summer months. Here’s how you can take advantage of the price drop.
Australian prawns have been feeding and breeding at a “higher rate” than usual amid the flooding the country has faced in the past two years – resulting in “high-quality” prawns “bringing the price down”, says Sydney Fish Markets’ Alex Stollznow. “This is looking to be the best prawn season in living memory in this country,” Mr Stollznow told Sky News Australia. “Normally, you’d expect to see extra large prawns retail for sort of $50 a kilo – today, they are under $40 a kilo across the board.”
This significant drop in price can be attributed to an unexpected glut of prawns flooding the market, due largely to the recent devastating floods along the east coast of the country.
The heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in various regions of Australia have had an unintended consequence: an abundance of nutrients from the land being washed out to sea. These nutrients serve as a bountiful feast for the crustaceans, leading to a surge in their population and ultimately resulting in a remarkable increase in prawn catch by fishers.
Australian fishers are reporting sizeable hauls, the likes of which haven’t been seen for years, with their nets bursting with the critters.
Fresh prawns are back on the menu as prices drop since Christmas. Picture: AAP/James Ross
The abundant supply is prompting wholesalers and retailers to significantly reduce prices to move the surplus stock at a fraction of the cost compared to just a few months ago.
In tandem with biosecurity warnings from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry pertaining to white spot disease in imported prawns, this is the perfect excuse to load up on the local affordable arthropods.
The prawn bonanza is likely to continue at least until summer 2023, providing an extended period of affordable prawns for consumers to enjoy.
However, throw some caution that the abundance may dwindle as the prawns gradually consume the excess nutrients available in the water.
How to cook prawns
Take advantage of the drop in price and try some recipes using prawns.
Prawns with BLT mayonnaise
Chilled prawns are a hit any time of the year.
Fresh prawns are an Aussie tradition.
Prawn cocktail buns with chipotle and chive mayo
Move over sandwiches, these prawn buns are perfect for entertaining.
Malaysian prawn laksa
This Malaysian prawn laksa with egg noodles is a perfect warming recipe for winter.
Prawn pasta is a winner. Picture: Supplied
15-minute garlic & prawn linguine
This garlic and chilli prawn recipe is so unbelievably quick and easy, you’ll never believe it takes only 15 minutes to cook! Just let the sauce and linguine work their magic.
Prawns with cashews and caramelised chilli and lime sauce
Add a bit of spice to your dinner party spread with Phoebe Wood’s delicious prawns with cashews and caramelised chilli and lime sauce.
Sesame prawn toast triangles
Finger food has never been more delicious.
For more food stories and recipes, go to delicious.com.au